How long to idle engine to circulate fuel stabilizer through system

[jonny rotten]

Sterndrive.
I know this is boat specific but in general how long do you idle in the driveway to be sure the fuel stabilizer that you just dumped in the gas tank( then flushed with gas to be sure it made it to the tank) gets through the lines, water separator and carb
4.3 mercruiser if it makes difference

 

[Rick Stephens]

It would be a while. Talking 1/3 of a gallon at idle....

When I use stabilizer I stick it in before I warm the motor preparatory to the oil change and water drainage. I don't really worry much about the fuel in my Edelbrock carburetor cause it mostly drains out by spring.

 

[Scott Danforth]

the fuel in a vented carb will evaporate out of the bowls in a few weeks

 

[isaacs]

For what it's worth...I bought my boat new, I avoid ethanol fuel, and have never used stabilizer. The boat sits in my driveway for about six months between seasons. I've never had to do a thing to the carburetor and it still runs like new.

I'm convinced that fuel does not go stale nearly as fast during the winter--kind of like keeping your beer in the fridge to keep it fresh! And ethanol is evil--stay away from it; it's made for drinking, not for boats.

 

[Scott Danforth]

For what it's worth...I bought my boat new, I avoid ethanol fuel, and have never used stabilizer. The boat sits in my driveway for about six months between seasons. I've never had to do a thing to the carburetor and it still runs like new.

I'm convinced that fuel does not go stale nearly as fast during the winter--kind of like keeping your beer in the fridge to keep it fresh! And ethanol is evil--stay away from it.

but ethanol is in your beer.....

 

[isaacs]

but ethanol is in your beer.....

You're too fast for me, you missed my edit!

 

[Baylinerchuck]

+1 @Rick Stephens.....I do it this way. I also like to use the Stabil fogging oil in the carb to kill the engine just as an added precaution. Admittedly this is probably overkill since my boat spends the winter months in my semi heated garage. Seafoam in the tank.